Atlantis Play Center is looking for your memories

GARDEN GROVE – Atlantis Play Center is often used to host little kids' birthday parties, but this year, the park itself celebrates a big birthday.

The park known to generations of Central Orange County families turns 50. And as the city prepares to celebrate with a bash this summer, officials are asking the public to send in photos of memorable moments spent at the park.

The photos will become part of several displays on June 15, when the community is invited to a free birthday party from noon to 4 p.m. at the park, 13630 Atlantis Way. The photos also will be featured in an online slideshow on the city's website. Participants who send in photos will receive a commemorative Atlantis 50th Anniversary lapel pin.

To submit a photo, email it with your name, the date it was taken and a phone number to recreation@ci.garden-grove.ca.us.

The birthday party will include a program recognizing Atlantis' founders and contributors, followed by 1960s-era carnival games, family activities and nostalgic treats.

The park known for its large open spaces and sea motif includes a long green sea serpent slide, a whale slide and a King Neptune pavilion. Last summer, the park added a new water area called "Splash Pad" — a $700,000 project funded by home development fees and the state's Community Development Block Grant program. Swim attire is required to enter the Splash Pad.

The park is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and from noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. The park is free for kids up to 2 years old and $2 for everyone else. Adults without children are not allowed and children without adults are not allowed.